AMAZING GRACE: Country Stars Sing Songs of Faith and Hope

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to DVD in this 10-disc set from Time Life is the deeply moving collection from country music’s legendary performers with AMAZING GRACE: Country Stars Sing Songs of Faith and Hope.

Growing up, country music was always playing in my childhood home. There were family roots in the south and a love of the genre of music was played with heart and soul. Along with the usual twang and heartbreak came the sweet and humble songs of faith. That is what this collection brings for me, faith and memories of childhood.

It was a woman named Fanny Crosby who would become known as the Queen of Gospel Songwriters and for good reason. In her lifetime she wrote over eight thousand hymns including Pass Me Not and Blessed Assurance. Along with Crosby, such names as Ira Sankey, Philip Bliss and Horatio Spafford, Charles McCallon Alexander, Homer Rodeheaver and the legendary Carter Family.

From Loretta Lynn to Ernie Ford, releasing gospel albums proved very successful. Johnny Cash and his distinctive voice recorded several of these albums bringing him into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. The group Alabama, along with Reba McEntire, Willie Nelson, B.J. Thomas, Martina McBride and Vince Gill continued the gospel tradition with successful album releases as well.

One of the most majestic places I’ve ever visited was the original Grand Ole Oprey but, there is a history behind that as well. The building was originally called the Union Gospel Tabernacle build by Captain Thomas Ryman. He found his faith from preacher Samuel Jones. The halls were once filled with the sounds of Buck Owens, Charley Pride, Bill Anderson, Porter Wagoner and Barbara Mandrell.

That is just the beginning of the classic and beloved songs that this collection brings home.  

Time Life continues to bring never before released anywhere classic collections of television shows for fans to revisit and remember what has made television so special. Time Life has released Mama’s Family, CPO Sharkey and The Tonight Show and they now remind of us of a time when sex and politics were up for grabs with ROWAN & MARTIN’S LAUGH-IN. For more of what Time Life has to offer fans of classic television visit www.timelife.com.

The Bonus Feature’s include a 36-Page Collector’s Booklet – filled with full-color photos, artist quotes and liner notes, 2 Bonus DVDs of Opry Gospel Classics – rarely seen historic performances from the archives of the Grand Ole Opry by Johnny Cash, the Hee Haw Gospel Quartet, Loretta Lynn, Barbara Mandrell, Dolly Parton, Charley Pride, Porter Wagoner, and many more.

Also, Interviews with More Than A Dozen Top Country Stars – Including Vince Gill, George Jones, The Oak Ridge Boys, The Statler Brothers, Marty Stuart, Josh Turner, and more, Bonus Performances – including Alabama’s Randy Owen singing “Amazing Grace” with his mother and Marty Stuart singing “Keep on the Sunny Side” with the Carter Family.

Country music has always been a staple in my life and all the names in this collection are those of people I have grown up listening to. These songs of inspiration help families through difficult time because that is what music does, it brings hope, grace and even joy.

Each of the 10 discs contains songs of devotion like The Oak Ridge Boys singing Loving God, Loving Each Other, Alan Jackson with When We All Get to Heaven, Alabama and The Old Rugged Cross. Vince Gill Tell Me One More Time About Jesus and George Jones with Amazing Grace.

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band brought their own brand of gospel to Will the Circle Be Unbroken, Gene Watson Where No One Stands Alone, Randy Travis Open the Eyes of My Heart, and Josh Turner’s How Great Thou Art can be found in this collection.

Let’s not forget the women who brought the sweet sounds of faith Loretta Lynn’s in the Garden, Connie Smith He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands, Cristy Lane One Day at a Time, and Dolly Parton with My Tennessee Mountain Home.

There are 153 performances over the 10-disc collection and will be an amazing musical addition to any home entertainment library.  

In the end – it is the sound of amazing grace!

 

 

Russell Simmons’ DEF COMEDY JAM ALL STARS Returns

 

Jeri Jacquin

On DVD is an amazing collection packed with laughs from Time Life is the 12-disc set of Russell Simmons’ DEF COMEDY JAM ALL STARS Collection.

In 1992, I had the cable channel HBO (known as Ho-Bo back in the day) and a new series premiered – Russell Simmons Def Comedy Jam and it was an instant smash. Friday nights would never be the same after that! Friends came to my house with food and good times as we all gathered to laugh ourselves silly and jaw dropped at what we heard.

Martin Lawrence would be the first to come to the stage for the series offering his own look into Black culture and humor. He explains that ‘def’ is what a Black person says when something is cool or off the charts. This comedian also introduces Chris Tucker to the world and later, Bernie Mack and Bill Bellamy.

Continuing to show viewers even more, Dave Chappelle came in strong. To keep the audience on track, Heavy D., Kid n’ Play, Kenny Anderson, Big Daddy Kane, Pepa, Q-Tip, the Wu-Tang Clan and Wesley Snipes would take their turn in the spotlight. HBO recognized what Simmons already knew, that the show was a marvel in its own right with originality.

Time Life continues to bring never before released anywhere classic collections of television shows for fans to revisit and remember what has made television so special. Time Life has released Mama’s Family, CPO Sharkey and The Tonight Show and they now remind of us of a time when sex and politics were up for grabs with ROWAN & MARTIN’S LAUGH-IN. For more of what Time Life has to offer fans of classic television visit www.timelife.com.

Bonus Features of the set include Bonus Episode “2 Raw 4 TV”, Bonus DVD: Shaq & Cedric the Entertainer Present: All Star Comedy Jam and a 24-page Def Comedy Jam Collector Booklet.

Russell Simmons grew up in Queens, New York and would literally become a mogul becoming part of anything he could get his hands into. From music being the co-founder of Def Jam Records to clothing with Phat Farm and Baby Phat lines, Russell even wrote seven books about success. Through DEF COMEDY JAM, the laugh world would come to know so many more comedians that are still making us laugh today.

Martin Lawrence skyrocketed into his own stratosphere going from the television screen to the big screen with such movies as DO THE RIGHT THING, BOOMERANG and BAD BOYS. Cedric the Entertainer continues on with The Kings of Comedy and also to films such as MADAGASCAR and BARBERSHOP.

Bill Bellamy would take his appearances on DEF COMEDY JAM and turn it into even more success going on to host MTV JAMS and onto the 90’s film with HOW TO BE A PLAYER (which is one of my sons’ favorites). Earthquake and Mike Epps made their comedy stand on the Def stage as well.

Let’s not forget the funny ladies as well! Adele Givens is the 1990 grand-prize winner of comedy at the historic Regal Theater in Chicago and would also becomes one of the QUEENS OF COMEDY. Her talent came to television with Moesha and The Hughleys before hitting the silver screen with THE PLAYERS CLUB and BEAUTY SHOP (one of my own personal favorites).  

Tiffany Haddish made her young Def Comedy appearance and quickly made her way to The Carmichael Show and jumping to the big screen with Queen Latifah in GIRLS TRIP. The Queen also came to the stage later in the show’s running but made a lasting impression.

Sheryl Underwood took to the Def Jam stage and also appeared in the film BEAUTY SHOP (well, sort of but she’s awesome) and hosted the Daytime Emmy Awards. That’s all speaks of success for the Little Rock native.

Another well known name in comedy is that of Kevin Hart. It was only the beginning as Hart has made his way through the television, big screen and friendship with Dwayne Johnson. That relationship brought fantastic on-screen chemistry in the film JUMANJI.

 D.L. Hughley brought his own brand of comedy to the stage and it translated into the BET show Comic View and eventually to television with The Hughleys. Steve Harvey also brought his comedy to the show and eventually also became part of the KINGS OF COMEDY. Besides his funny side which can be seen on Family Feud, he has a very philosophical side with a daytime show.  

Other names of comedy that are totally recognizable is that of Tracy Morgan of Saturday Night Live fame and FRIDAY film star Chris Tucker. Finally, Wayans royalty as Damon Wayans Jr. takes his turn to make the audience laugh although, he already did that with his 1994 film BLANKMAN.

Time Life recognizes the vast richness of what Russell Simmons brought to HBO and recognize the best and brightest performances. This 12-disc DVD set if not only for those of us who remember it from the show’s very beginning, but for every generation after to see where these extraordinary performers took their talent.

Just as I did in 1992, Russel Simmons’ DEF COMEDY JAM had me laughing just has much and probably even harder now. Of course, there is the thing of seeing them all so young and remembering ‘oh jeez, was I ever that young too?’, it was an enjoyable time of binge laughing,

So, gather the pals from the 90’s and relive some classic comedy and then add to the group because the food will be good, the company will be awesome and the laughs will be non-stop!

In the end – see how excellence in comedy was born!

Time Life Keys up with ED SULLIVAN’S ROCK & ROLL CLASSICS

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on a 10 DVD Set from Time Life is an extensive look at music with ED SULLIVAN’S ROCK & ROLL CLASSICS.

The Ed Sullivan Show was a staple variety show in family homes beginning in 1948 util 1971. Through all that time, he introduced some of the most outstanding talent. Elvis Presley hit the stage in 1956 and sent the shows rating skyrocketing. Appearing again to sing ‘Hound Dog’, he sent censors reeling with his gyrating performances. So much so they had to enact policy about how Presley would be filmed.

That same year, Fats Domino would entertain audiences with his R&B sound and ‘Blueberry Hill’ which is still a memorable song today. The next year, a very tall young man with thick black glasses from Lubbock, Texas would perform. Buddy Holly rocked with ‘Peggy Sue’ and ‘That’ll be the Day’. To this day I am partial to the song ‘True Love Ways’.

In 1960, a thrilling Jackie Wilson would bring ‘Lonely Teardrops’ to music lovers and in 1964 The 4 Seasons sing ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’. Both of these songs are still played on the radio and can be found on song lists today. That’s how memorable and good they are.

The year 1964 would turn out to be one of the most fantastic with the introduction of a young Stevie Wonder playing the piano and singing ‘Fingertips Pt. II’. The world would also discover that this major talent did so without his sight. The Beach Boys would bring another summer hit with ‘I Get Around’, The Animals brought the dark and brooding ‘House of the Rising Sun’.

Also, that year, The Rolling Stones sang and played ‘Time is on My Side’ with Mick Jagger leading his group.

The world would be introduced to a very sexy Welshman with Tom Jones capturing female fans especially with his rendition of ‘It’s Not Unusual’. The girls aren’t far behind with their Ed Sullivan musical contribution with Martha & The Vandellas having us all ‘Dancing in the Streets’.

The Byrds brought the most memorable and frequently still used in movies and television shows with ‘Turn! Turn! Turn!’ and later played the Dylan son ‘Mr. Tambourine Man’ in psychedelics.

The music starts to change with a mixture of R&B and the feel of the 60’s beginning with The Young Rascals and ‘Good Lovin’. James Brown brings historic energy to the show with ‘Prisoner of Love’. Marvin Gaye also changes things up by performing ‘This Heart of Mine’ (another of my personal favorites).

For a bit more of the 60’s vibe, The Mamas & The Papas fall into the counterculture of music and sweep with the melodic ‘Monday, Monday’ and the harmony of ‘California Dreamin’.

Lovin’ Spoonful bring a different color with ‘Do You Believe in Magic’ and Johnny Rivers ‘Baby I Need You’re Lovin’. Another psychedelic came with The Turtles singing ‘She’d Rather Be with Me’. The Temptations would bring two of their hits to Ed Sullivan with ‘I Know I’m Losing You’ and ‘My Girl’.

One of my favorite groups, The Bee Gees would croon with ‘Words’, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles agree to ‘I Second that Emotion’. The funk arrives with Sly & The Family Stone with ‘Dance to the Music’.

If you don’t know The 5^th Dimension and ‘Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In’ then we might not be able to be friends. What a stunner performance. CCR or Creedence Clearwater Revival in case you don’t know performs with his ‘Proud Mary’ as Janis Joplin made sure we all got to ‘Raise Your Hand’. Steppenwolf asks us all to go on a ‘Magic Carpet Ride’ and it is so worth it.

When you want to make sure the band has a memorable name, then you name yourself The Band and bring roots to their performance of ‘Up on Cripple Creek’ in 1969. There has always been controversy around Jerry Lee Lewis, but that didn’t stop the Ed Sullivan from having him on the show to perform ‘Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On’.

The world was about to know The Jackson 5 as a young Michael Jackson and his brothers would charm and belt out the song ‘I Want You Back’. The audience did not realize but in the years that followed would, they were in the presence of the future King of Pop.

Finally, in 1970, the song that would become synonymous with memes about it and the song associated with BUTCH CASSIDY AND THE SUNDANCE KID with B.J. Thomas’ ‘Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head’. The brother and sister team known as The Carpenters put sister Karen on a set of drums and sway the audience with ‘(They Long to Be) Close to You’.

Ike and Tina Turner brought something explosive to The Ed Sullivan Show with their rendition of CCR’s song ‘Proud Mary’. The difference is that Tina Turner put her own touches on it reviving the song into a hit once again.

Time Life continues to bring never before released anywhere classic collections of television shows for fans to revisit and remember what has made television so special. Time Life has released Mama’s Family, CPO Sharkey and The Tonight Show and they now remind of us of a time when sex and politics were up for grabs with ROWAN & MARTIN’S LAUGH-IN. For more of what Time Life has to offer fans of classic television visit www.timelife.com.

What is so amazing about this 10-disc collection is what you see above is only a fraction of what this set has to offer. Inside the set is a program guide that will go into detail even more of the music we have come to love and know that we will never see again. There are more gems such as The Supremes, Tommy James and the Shondells, The Friends of Distinction, Dusty Springfield, Steppenwolf and so many more.

That is what Time Life has done for music, kept it safe and secure so generation after generation can experience the progression of where The Ed Sullivan Show started and where we are now. Giving audiences and families watching at home each week something unseen and unheard at that time, it is what Sunday nights were made for.

Take time to revisit something so special, it is worth the 10-discs and more.

In the end – these are rock & roll classics!

Brilliance has come to THE ULTIMATE RICHARD PRYOR COLLECTION UNCENSORED

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming from Time Life is the most amazing 13-disc collection from one of the greatest comics who left his mark on the world with THE ULTIMATE RICHARD PRYOR COLLECTION UNCENSORED.

On December 1^st, 1940, Richard Franklin Lennox Thomas Pryor was born in Peoria Illinois. Not a great start to life, young Richard learned about the real world growing up in a brothel with his mother and grandmother and a father who has his own issues in life. With a very difficult growing up, Pryor joined the Army but that too pushed him towards another run in with the law.

Arriving in New York in 1963, he began his club career and eventually made his way into television with appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show and The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. He also wrote for such shows as Sanford and Son and (my personal favorite) The Flip Wilson Show.

Comedy albums helped to build his success for which he won several Grammy’s for Best Comedy Recordings. Pryor also co-wrote BLAZING SADDLES, was a guest host on Saturday Night Life until, in 1977 he would host his own The Richard Pryor Show. On the big screen, Pryor came to life with LADY SINGS THE BLUES, SILVER STREAK, GREASED LIGHTENING, SUPERMAN III, BREWSTER’S MILLIONS, THE TOY and HARLEM NIGHTS just to name a few.

Pryor was no stranger to alcohol, smoking, hard living and drug use which brought him to the most talked about event of his life and became the laughs for some of his comedy. In the 1990’s, he would be diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and wife Jennifer Lee had no worries taking care of the man she truly loved.

In December of 2005, the world would lose one of the greatest comic geniuses who made us laugh, think, be a tad uncomfortable and then make us laugh all over again – he had a large name that would never be as large as his presence on the stage and screen.

Time Life continues to bring never-before released anywhere classic collections of television shows for fans to revisit and remember what has made television so special. Time Life has released Mama’s Family, CPO Sharkey and The Tonight Show and they now remind of us of a time when sex and politics were up for grabs with ROWAN & MARTIN’S LAUGH-IN. For more of what Time Life has to offer fans of classic television visit www.timelife.com.

THE ULTIMATE RICHARD PRYOR COLLCTION UNCENSORED includes Volume 1-six discs Richard Pryor: Live & Smokin’, The Legend of Uncle Tom’s Fairy Tales and Interviews with Jennifer Lee Pryor Richard Pryor: Live in Concert, Richard Pryor: Live on the Sunset Strip, Richard Pryor: Here and Now, The Richard Pryor Special?, The Richard Pryor Show (Never Aired Original Series Opening), The Richard Pryor Show (Cold Open: Camel Love,  Chimp Symphony, The Richard Pryor Show (TV Violence, Improv Segment Outtakes), The Richard Pryor Show (Mudbone Monologue, Audience Q&A).

Volume 2-six discs The Merv Griffin Show (four shows), The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson (three shows), Pryor’s Place (five shows), JOJO DANCER YOUR LIFE IS CALLING, Last Stand-Up Sit Down, Richard Pryor: LOVED! On the Sunset Strip: An American Cinematheque Tribute, Richard Pryor: I Ain’t Dead Yet, #*%$#@!!, and The Dick Cavett Show, Richard Pryor: Omit the Logic. Also included are interviews with Mel Brooks, Whoopi Goldberg, Lily Tomlin, Jennifer Lee Pryor, Willie Nelson, Quincy Jones, David Banks and David Steinberg.

Volume 3 includes I Am Richard Pryor.

Always Pushing the boundaries, Pryor’s comedy was in your face and hard, just like the life he led. It would not be out of line to say that if life imitates art, he found a way to make fun of both and, at times, at his own expense. Nothing and no one were safe from the biting humor and telling us about his world.

I actually remember hearing Pryor for the first time and my jaw dropping followed by howling laughter. In one fell swoop he added a new convert to his army of followers who knew that seeing Pryor meant that anything could possibly happen, and he never let us down.

Taking every step and then a step further, his comedy had truth wrapped up in the laughs and moments where the audience (or anyone listening for that matter) became privy to his train of thought. Starting out as chaos, he asked us to trust the verbal ride bringing it to a thought-provoking and hilarious conclusion. He was always the conductor of the train and when the ride was over – we all bought another ticket without hesitation!

His film career is equally extraordinary as my favorites of his films are GREASED LIGHTENING and HARLEM NIGHTS. The latter film brought Pryor on screen with Eddie Murphy, but the cast also included the additional stunning comedic performers of Arsenio Hall, Ray Murphy, and Redd Foxx. The film made me laugh and every time it is on television, I stop to watch these characters make it all look so easy.

As with everything that Time Life bring us, they have reached into every nook and cranny to find amazing pieces to share with true fans of Richard Pryor. Their unique ability to weave together this thoughtful collection is worth every moment of viewing. The holidays are right around the corner and this collection would make a truly wonderful present with 1,584 minutes (yes, that is correct!) of what we came to love Pryor for.

In the end – he said it best with ‘I love ya’ll and you can take that with you!”

The Greatest Moments of CMA AWARDS LIVE on Bluray

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on Bluray from Time Life comes a few of the most memorable moments with CMA AWARDS LIVE GREATEST MOMENTS: 2008-2015.

The Country Music Association is also known as the CMA Awards and is televised to present awards to artists in country music for their achievements to the industry. First presented in 1967 at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium, a year later it became a televised event. In 1968 the event took place at the Grand Ole Opry and continued until 2004 at the new Grand Ole Opry House. Changing locations a few times since then hasn't changed the excitement of such a big award evening.

That's why it is so amazing that Time Life continues to put together special moments from those events and in this Bluray it is the years 2008-2015!

In 2008, the CMA's where held at Nashville's Bridgestone Arena with performances by such artists as Miranda Lambert 'More Like Her', Brooks & Dunne singing 'Cowgirls Don't Cry' featuring Reba McEntire, and Trace Adkins with 'You're Gonna Miss This'.

Not to be outdone, the following year, the 2009 CMA's brought the performances of Lady A with 'Need You Now' which is still played in rotation today. Bringing in her own brand of sass and country, Taylor Swift sings 'Fifteen' and the iconic Reba McEntire lets us all know that we should 'Consider Me Gone'.

The 44th Annual CMA's in 2010 brings an amazing trio of a performance but first, Zac Brown featuing Alan Jackson sing 'As She's Walking Away' and Jason Aldean and Kelly Clarkson pair up for 'Don't You Wanna Stay'. A stellar performance with the triple threat singing 'Coal Miner's Daughter' brings Miranda Lambert, Sheryl Crow and the queen of country music herself, Loretta Lynn to the stage.

2011 brings it's own brand of duets at the CMA's with Kenny Chesney and Grace Potter singing 'You and Tequila' and the song 'Remind Me' with Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood. The evening also includes Sara Evans 'A Little Bit Stronger' and 'Country Girl (Shake it for Me) from Luke Bryan. Taylor Swift with 'Begin Again' and Little Big Town 'Pontoon' perform at the 46th Annual CMA Awards in 2012.

The 47th Annual CMA's brings Taylor Swift, Alison Krauss, Vince Gill, Sam Bush, Edgar Meyer and Eric Darken to the stay to belt out Swift's song 'Red' and Florida Georgia Line performed 'Round Here'. Alan Jackson joins George Strait on stage for the memorable song 'He Stopped Loving Her Today'. Also, Eric Church sings 'The Outisders'.

In 2014 at the 48th Annual CMA Awards Austrailian country artist Keith Urban sings 'Somewhere in my Car' and Dierks Bentley croons about being 'Drunk on a Plane'.

The final year on the Bluray is filled with one of my most favorite performances. Starting with Sam Hunt performing 'Take Your Time' and Little Big Town doing 'Girl Crush'. It all leads up to, what I consider, the pillar of performances with Chris Stapleton and Justin Timberlake performing 'Tennesee Whiskey/Drinking You Away. If you haven't seen these two singings together you are truly missing something amazing that reaches down to that place where music inside us all resides.

Time Life continues to bring never before released anywhere classic collections of television shows for fans to revisit and remember what has made television so special. Time Life has released Mama’s Family, CPO Sharkey and The Tonight Show and they now remind of us of a time when sex and politics were up for grabs with ROWAN & MARTIN’S LAUGH-IN. For more of what Time Life has to offer fans of classic television visit www.timelife.com.

The Bluray also includes the Bonus Features of the interview with Robert Deaton, Executive Producer of the CMA Awards, Record Breakers: Female Vocalist of the Year Miranda Lambert and Entertain 'Em, Blake! Blake Shelton.

"For more than fifty years, the CMA Awards have spotlighted the top performers of America's favoite music, capturing the songs and artists that have provided a soundtrack for our lives. This collection brings you highlights from 2008-2015…this collection of CMA Awards performances showcases the diversity of talent and the powerful songs that have made country music the heartbeat of America" - Time Life.

Spending time in the south as a child and later as an adult, I know country music has a huge impact in the lives of those living there and around the world. Even when in Memphis, the airport celebrates all of the performers that are their native residents and even in Nashville there are so many places that embrace country music.

I have stood on the stage of the original Grand Ole Opry and touched the microphone that once had Loretta Lynn performance of or Patsy Cline in 1958 singing 'Walking After Midnight'. There is one thing clear, it is a powerful and emotional experience for someone brought up on the sounds of country music.

Now, Time Life captures that once again by choosing (and I know it had to be difficult) some of the most stunning performances during the years 2008-2015. That's what makes this disc so fantastic is being able to see each of these years again and again in stunning color and sound.

In the end - greatest moments are truly meant to last!

Time Life Brings a Box Set of ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME Concerts

Jeri Jacquin

Time Life has always been ahead of the game when it comes to bringing back the music we have come to love and pass on to our own kids and grandkids. Now, they continue with their musical tradition of excellence bringing the best and amazing people who still rock in our hearts with ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME IN CONCERT: Encore, ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME: In Concert and THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME CONCERTS on DVD.

ROCK & ROLL IN CONCERT brings every year the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame honors those that have brought something stellar and amazing to Rock and Roll and music in general. In thirty years, the Hall of Fame has inducted those who have brought classy to classic rock from the 60s, 70s and 80s. These are the years that will never be again but thanks to Time Life we can once again experience some of those most touching moments and rock out to music that will never die!

At the 25th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony held at the Waldorf Astoria on March 16, 2010 in New York, the opening is a performance by Phish with Watcher of the Skies in tribute to Genesis. Trey Anastasio has the honors of inducting the group for their long contribution to music with Tony Banks, Phil Collins, Steve Hackett and Mike Rutherford accepting.

Billie Joe Armstrong inducts The Stooges and the memorable performance of their songs Search and Destroy as well as I Wanna Be Your Dog. Steven Van Zandt inducts The Hollies with Bernie Calvert, Allan Clarke, Eric Haydock, Graham Nash and Terry Sylvester. The musical performance includes Adam Levine and Paul Shaffer with Bus Stop, Carrie-Anne and Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress) and the audience clearly loved it so much they sang along.

Paul Shaffer receives the 25 Years of Great Music Appreciation Award and it isn't surprising that he would only surprising that it took 25 years.

Barry Gibb and brother Robin take to the stage to induct Abba into the Hall of Fame with Benny Anderson and Anni-Frid Lyngstad accepting. Faith Hill takes the stage for her heart felt rendition of the classic Abba song The Winner Takes It All.

At the 26th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, the list of attendees is even bigger. Beginning with John Legend's induction speech for the incomparable Dr. John, it is amazing to experience someone else's feelings towards the amazing performer.

Bette Midler has a chance to take the stage with her speech for the induction of the well-deserved Darlene Love. Her speech about the career she has experienced was informative and long time in coming.

Growing up in this next inductees era, there was one song that rocked for years, oh let's face it EVERY year around June when it was time to leave our books behind and enjoy the sun and beach. Rob Zombie inducts Alice Cooper which also gave me a thrill to see him perform the songs that kept me riveted for years with Eighteen, Under My Heels and, of course, the iconic anthem that is still played to School's Out. The groups acceptance speech included Michael Bruce, Dennis Dunaway, Neal Smith and an endearing 'thanks to my wife', the irreplaceable Alice Cooper.

Neil Young inducts Tom Waits into the Hall of Fame and Waits comes to the stage with his unique voice thanking all he could and giving us a bit more of his humor as well. I have to say that although I am thrilled to say that I couldn't get enough of Tom Waits through the years, I do enjoy his film roles as well. He continues to be unique both in front of a music crowd but a theatre screen as well.

Elton John comes to the podium and gives a riveting speech to induct Leon Russell into the Hall of Fame. Sharing his memories of when he met Russell, Elton also recalls the time he listened to Russell and broke down in sobs. Knowing it needed to happen, Elton embarked on a journey to make music with Russell. The speech about the inductee almost had me in tears as well.

That is when the concert of a lifetime begins as Tom Waits and Dr. John along with Paul Shaffer and the Hall of Fame Orchestra perform the songs Make It Rain, Rain Dogs, House Where Nobody Lives, and Right Place Wrong Time. It is followed by Leon Russell singing out Delta Lady, A Song For You with an amazing performance with John Legend. Darlene Love is joined by another legend onstage as Bruce Springsteen is introduced to join her in a musical set. Love and Bette Midler take on (Today I Met) The Boy I'm Gonna Marry and He's A Rebel.

The 27th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony held at the Public Hall in Cleveland, Ohio begins with a performance by Green Day singing Letterbomb and Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill inducting Freddie King into the hall of fame with a speech by Wanda King followed by a performance of the songs Hide Away and Going Down. John Mellencamp inducts Donovan next with a performance by the inductee of his songs Catch the Wind, Sunshine Superman and Season of the Witch.

Steven Van Zandt inducts Small Faces/Faces attended by Kenney Jones, Mollie Marriott (on behalf of Steve Marriott), Ian McLagan and Ron Wood. The band performs Ooh La La and Stay With Me. Chuck D and LL Cool J inducts the Beastie Boys with an acceptance speech by Michael "Mike D" Diamond and Adam "Ad-Rock" Horovitz. The audience is treated to their songs No Sleep Till Brooklyn, So What 'Cha Want and Sabotage.

Chris Rock gets his time to induct the Red Hot Chili Peppers and there to accept is Flea, Jack Irons, Anthony Kiedis, Josh Klinghoffer, Cliff Martinez, James Slovak (on behalf of Hillel Slovak) and Chad Smith. A performance of their songs By The Way, The Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie and Give It Away had me hopping around the house a little (don't tell anyone!).

The finale caps off the event with the Red Hot Chili Peppers with the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Jam Band with Higher Ground.

ROCK & ROLL IN CONCERT ENCORE is the 28th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles begins with Randy Newman, the beloved Tom Petty, John Fogerty and Jackson Browne doing the song that makes people everywhere wish they were there in I Love LA. Don Henley gives us a look at Newman's musical history and what he has accomplished. Newman and Henley take the stage to rock a little with I'm Dead (But I Don't Know It).

John Mayer arrives onstage to induct Albert King to the Hall of Fame as Gary Clark Jr. performs Oh, Pretty Woman and is joined by Booker T. Jones and John Mayer for Born Under a Bad Sign. If you don't know Albert Kings work, it is worth everything in your musical world to experience. The performance is stirring and filled with all the soul intended by Albert King the first time he played them. Born Under A Bad Sign performance is the reason we go to musical church time after time!

Chris Cornell inducts the band called Heart. The speeches include Michael DeRosier, Roger Fisher, Steve Fossen and Howard Leese. It is Ann and Nancy Wilson who prove that sisters can rock it like there is no music in the world. Their range and talent cannot be matched and I dare anyone to try because you can't break sisters. As Ann Wilson said, they came at a time when there were only four career choices for women and being part of a rock band wasn't one of them. Performing Crazy On You and Barracuda, they are joined by Jerry Cantrell, Chris Cornell and Mike McCready.

Oprah Winfrey inducts Quincy Jones into the Hall of Fame along with receiving the Ahmet Ertegun Award for Lifetime Achievement. Spike Lee and Harry Belefonte induct Public Enemy and the acceptance speeches include Chuck D, Flavor Flav, Terminator X and Professor Griff.

Dave Grohl and Taylor Hawkins induct the band Rush into the Hall of Fame as Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart take the stage. Along with Grohl and Hawkins, Rush gears up to play the final set with 2112: Overture, Tom Sawyer and The Spirit of Radio. Watching Rush play gives the feeling of being transported back to being at one of their concerts in the early days. This group has made its mark and is the epitome of the era of music.

The Bluray includes 44 iconic performances from 2010 to 2013 at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies. Four years induction on two brilliantly mastered discs reminds us all why we love our rock and roll as well as other genres of music that has endured. It is over 481 minutes of extensive inductions and musical performances.

The next amazing and brilliant Bluray reminding me why I live for music with ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME: In Concert.

This collection begins with the 29th Annual Induction Ceremony in 2014 with one of my favorite musicians Peter Gabriel who has given audiences some beautiful music through different genres. Starting with a speech by Chris Martin from Coldplay with a very funny biblical speech, it is Gabriel who reminds us that music moves us in ways that are unexplainable. He encourages musicians to be different and doesn't forget to thank those who have allowed him to live his musical life. His performance with Chris Martin is stirring, heartfelt and personally brought a smile to my face. His finish of 'In Your Eyes' gave me a moment to remember my wedding day when the song played as I readied to walk down the aisle to marry my own Lloyd Dobler. Perfection!

Simon Garfunkle shows up to tell the story of Cat Stevens and how he has affected lives welcoming the seeker into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Stevens comes to the stage and is forthcoming about his music and his life to the point of reminding us all what his music truly brought to the world. His rendition of 'Father and Sons' is just as moving today as it was the very first time I heard it. 'Baby It's a Wild World' and 'Peace Train' is so emotional and the audience is completely mesmerized by this once in a lifetime performance.

Glenn Fry inducts Linda Rondstadt into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Carrie Underwood, Bonnie Raitt and Emmy Lou Harris giving a performance of 'Blue Bayou'. Cheryl Crow is added to the musical mix for the beloved song 'You're No Good' with the final addition of Stevie Nicks to add her vocals to 'It's So Easy' and 'When Will I Be Loved?'

There are so many more on the first disc alone! Bruce Springsteen and his E Street gang as well as Michael Stipes inducting Nirvana to the Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame. Joan Jett comes to the stage with Dave Grohl to rock and smash on the song 'Smells Like Teen Spirit', Kim Gordon from Sonic Youth to grunge 'Aneurysm' and Lorde finishes with 'All Apologies'. I have to say I was thrilled to see Dave Grohl back on the drums for Nirvana.

The 30th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame happened on April 18th, 2015 and Joan Jett & The Blackhearts are now taking the stage themselves to bring us 'Bad Reputation', one of my favorite songs 'Crimson and Clover' as Joan is joined by Miley Cyrus, Gary Ryan, Dave Grohl and the one and only Tommy James. The Paul Butterfield Blues Band brought out Zac Brown, Tom Morello, Jason Ricci and Paul Shaffer for 'Born in Chicago'.

Stevie Wonder inducts Bill Withers as the two also share the stage for 'Ain't No Sunshine' and 'Lean on Me' along with John Legend. Green Day is inducted by Fall Out Boy as fans once again get to hear such songs as 'American Idiot', 'When I Come Around' and a song many of us could relate to with 'Basket Case'.

Stevie Ray Vaughn and Double Trouble are inducted by John Mayer and I couldn't wait to hear the song 'Texas Flood' once again! Patti Smith inducts Lou Reed as Laurie Anderson accepts on his behalf. Beck leads the song 'Satellite of Love' which is a song that has endured.

Receiving the Award for Musical Excellence is Ringo Starr and who better to give him the award than his brother in music Sir Paul McCartney. Green Day joins Ringo Starr for 'Boys' and Joe Walsh joins him for 'It Don't Come Easy'. Of course the finale wouldn't be a finale without Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney joined by Joe Walsh for 'I Wanna Be Your Man'.

The 31st Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony held on April 6, 2016 brings Lars Ulrich to tell the story of how the group Deep Purple into his life and they have an impact bringing the audience 'Highway Star' and 'Smoke on the Water' (Ulrich causes the beginning rift of that song the first thing guitar players learn and the rift that has been banned from music stores). Ulrich isn't lying because it is the first thing I learned on my guitar because I too wanted to be cool even if for a moment.

Bert Berns is inducted by Steven Van Zandt with the Ahmet Ertegun Award for Lifetime Achievement with a very touching acceptance speech by Cassandra and Brett Berns. Kendrick Lamar inducts N.W.A. as Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, DJ Yella and MC Ren take the stage with their own acceptance speeches.

Rob Thomas inducts the group Chicago as the group takes the stage for 'Saturday in the Park', 'Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?', and '25 or 6 to 4'. These are amazing songs that had me toe tapping and Rob Thomas said it best, 'these songs are the sound of a city, they are the sound of a melting pot, they are the sounds of unity and they are the sounds of Chicago' and I couldn't agree more. These are songs of my teen years and every time I hear them I remember the sights and sounds of my life. Nothing wrong with that!

Kid Rock is the perfect person to induct Cheap Trick into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with a speech that might have some parents either cheering him on (the younger version of ourselves at least) or jaw drop but mentally doing the right on hand gesture. He says, "You can't not watch them. Their front man is a matinee idol that can croon with swagger and their guitarist looks like a Bowery Boy on acid. No studio could do them justice, they were so big, so loud and so fast that no one could capture their fury." Cheap Trick rocks on the stage with 'I Want You To Want Me', 'Dream Police', 'Surrender' and the finale 'Ain't That A Shame'.

Finally, The 32nd Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony starts with the induction of ELO (Electric Light Orchestra for those hatched from an egg yesterday) as Jeff Lynne brings to the stage 'Roll Over Beethoven', 'Evil Woman' and 'Mr. Blue Sky'. They are inducted by Dhani Harrison (who looks beautifully like his father) which is an awesome way to start the ceremony!

Jackson Browne has the honor of inducting Joan Baez as she brings her recognizable voice to 'Swing Low, Sweet Chariot', then joined by Mary Chapin Carpenter, Amy Ray and Emily Saliers for 'Deportee (Plane Wreck at Los Gatos) and finally 'The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down'. Baez' voice still carries the glory of faith, hope and the hope for a better tomorrow.

Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson from the group Rush induct the band Yes as Geddy Lee joins in with 'Roundabout' and Yes performs one of my favorite songs 'Owner of a Lonely Heart'. Lifeson says that his first experience with Yes was as a teenager letting the music wash over him and that this was his gateway band at the age of 17. It is as if he is speaking for all of us who first came across the band in our teen years.

Snoop Dogg inducts Tupac Shakur into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to the cheer of the crowd. It has been 21 years since the death of Shakur and Snoop Dogg tells the brief story of his life. He says, "To be human is to be many things at once, strong and vulnerable, hard headed and intellectual, revolutionary and gangster so while we are here to celebrate a prolific artist - I am here to make sure Pac is remembered the way he wanted to be - a strong black man".

Setting my brain on fire is Pat Monahan from Train who inducts my beloved band Journey into the Hall of Fame. I could hardly contain myself to see the band Jonathan Cain, Aynsley Dunbar, Gregg Rolie, Neal Schon, Steve Smith and Ross Valory on stage.

Feeling as if I was once again in a concert hall (as I did so many times when they were on tour), I had the chance to once again hear 'Separate Ways (Worlds Apart), 'Lights' and 'Don't Stop Believin' and my heart just swelled up knowing that these guys were on my record player so many times I warped the album (yes kids, albums, round discs that when you put a needle on it played glorious sounds with the occasional popping sound that I love to this very day).

Monahan said it best, "There music has transcended all things that separate us as humans". My Journey collection remains in my safe keeping and anytime I need to go to an deep music place, the needle hits the vinyl and I hear the one and only voice of Steve Perry.

Finally, David Letterman inducts Pearl Jam into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The music of Pearl Jam includes 'Alive', 'Given to Fly' and 'Better Man'. Letterman calls them cultural icons as well as friends and lists songs that bring the fans to screams. Telling their story along with the list, there doesn't seem to be a song that doesn't cause a reaction. Having the chance to experience Pearl Jam playing together again is just a ridiculous joy! Eddie Vedder still has the voice that stands out with its storytelling righteous anger as his band makes it all sound easy.

THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME CONCERTS bring some of the most iconic musicians with Crosby, Still & Nash, Bonnie Raitt, Jackson Browne, Stevie Wonder, Sting, and Paul Simon. But that's not all, the grand lady Aretha Franklin sings Baby I Love You and is later joined by Annie Lennox (a personal favorite of mine) to sing Chain of Fools.

Metallica has no problem belting out their hit Enter Sandman, U2 sings Beautiful Day, Sting sings his rendition of People Get Ready, John Fogerty croons the legendary Roy Orbison's hit Oh, Pretty Woman and Billy Joel brings us to a New York State of Mind. Finally a tribute to Jackie Wilson with (Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher. Think of Ghostbusters making the Statue of Liberty dance and you'll know what song I'm referring to!

Time Life continues to bring never before released anywhere classic collections of television shows for fans to revisit and remember what has made television so special. Time Life has released Mama’s Family, CPO Sharkey and The Tonight Show and they now reminds of us of a time when sex and politics were up for grabs with ROWAN & MARTIN’S LAUGH-IN. For more of what Time Life has to offer fans of classic television visit www.timelife.com.

This collection has some of the most amazing collaboration of performances that has ever been seen and I personally am thrilled by them. It has been some time since I've seen many of these performers so having this Bluray makes sure that will never happen again. Memorable songs that have become iconic for so many reasons are only one of the added bonuses to this collection.

Adding this amazing three disc collection home entertainment library is like having a concert in your home anytime you like and embracing the music that we keep listening, dancing and occasionally dance around our house in. Music has an amazing ability to transport us back into emotions, both good and maybe not-so-good, memorable times and places that are welcoming.

Time Life once again takes us on a musical journey that is uplifting, soul searching, endearing, and empowering. That is what they do best with their CD's that I love but now adding the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Ceremony's so we can see the singers, bands and performers that have impacted our lives.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum's mission is to engage, teach and inspire through the power of rock and roll. The institution carries out its mission by giving voice to the stories of the people, artifacts and events that shaped rock and roll. For more information on the Museum please visit www.rockhall.com.

In the end - because..long live rock and roll!!!!

ROBIN WILLIAMS COMIC GENIUS is Crowned on DVD

Jeri Jacquin

From Time Life, the re-creator for generations who thought their favorite shows and music were gone, is the ultimate heart stealer for me with the DVD Collection ROBIN WILLIAMS COMIC GENIUS.

Born in Chicago (which should have early on given me some clue for my admiration – Go Cubs!), he would be transplanted in his teens to Marine  County, California. Choosing acting over anything else, he received a full scholarship to Juilliard in New York City.

Williams’s career began on the West Coast. Starting in San Francisco to Los  Angeles, he hit the club circuit. Taking on twists and turns, in 1977 HBO would came calling to air one of his stand-up performances.

But, it is in 1978 that a character known as Mork would invade an episode of the Garry Marshall television hit Happy Days. From that performance, the series Mork & Mindy starring Robin Williams and Pam Dawber was born. Set in Boulder, Colorado, Mork from Ork lands on our planet in an egg and what follows is a hatching of pure genius. Williams had the chance to be whatever he wanted to be and his face graced the cover of Time Magazine followed by Rolling Stones magazine.

HBO once again came calling which led to five comedy specials starting with 1978’s Off the Wall, in 1983 An Evening with Robin Williams and finally in 1986 Robin Williams: Live at the Met, Live on Broadway in 2002 and finally Weapons of Self Destruction in 2009. All five of these specials are still played in my home because nothing changes a mood quicker than when HBO allowed Williams to just be – well – Robin Williams.

His call to the screen was the next step and in 1982 he absolutely stunned me in the film THE WORLD ACCORDING TO GARP but it was in 1987 when GOOD MORNING, VIETNAM hit the screen that once again Williams sky rocketed. Using his wit and ability to create the voices of memorable characters, he cemented his career as a comedian.

But there was one character he excelled at with heart and soul and that is dramatic roles. Starting in 1997 with GOOD WILL HUNTING and 1990’s AWAKENINGS, it was the tragic and soul crushing role in the 1998 film WHAT DREAMS MAY COME that tore me apart.

Off the big screen and small, Williams teamed up with friends Whoopi Goldberg and Billy Crystal and brought Comic Relief USA to HBO raising $80 million dollars to help anyone in need. He also worked with the USO to bring laughs to over 100,000 troops and they, to this day, have not forgotten that.

Time Life is making sure that we don’t and in such a stunning and beautiful way! ROBIN WILLIAMS Comic Genius brings us all through the years and reasons Williams is a beloved and iconic genius.

In the box are all five HBO stand up specials with Off the Wall (1978), An Evening with Robin Williams (1983), An Evening at the Met (1986), Live on Broadway (2002) and Weapons of Self Destruction (2009).

There is also exclusive additional features with Rare Archival Footage of Robin's Early Stand-Up, Raw Footage from HBO's Promo Shoots and Press Interviews, People's Choice Awards Honoring Robin and E! Press Room footage, Newly Produce Featurettes and Exclusive New Interviews with Lewis Black and Robin's Manager David Steinberg.

Also included are hours of bonus features including newly-produced featurettes The Early Years, San Francisco: Where It All Began, Comic Genius and TV's Best Guest.

Time Life continues to bring never before released anywhere classic collections of television shows for fans to revisit and remember what has made television so special. Time Life has released Mama’s Family, CPO Sharkey and The Tonight Show and they now reminds of us of a time when sex and politics were up for grabs with ROWAN & MARTIN’S LAUGH-IN. For more of what Time Life has to offer fans of classic television visit www.timelife.com.

This collection brings every emotion possible and that isn’t an exaggeration. Calling this collection Comic Genius is perfection and well deserved by Robin Williams. On stage and screen he had the whole world laughing (and with Mork probably the whole universe!) His unique comedic timing was fueled by the laughter from the audience, the more outrageous the farther he would go.

This 5-DVD Collector's Set of Williams will light us all up once again and let us experience the laughs again and again. That is why we have home entertainment libraries, so we can, at any time, pull off the shelf a beloved comedian that continues to be a laughing light. This family happens to be a Williams fan from the very beginning and his comedy specials have never stopped bringing us laughs and even catching ourselves repeating his lines a time or two in our lives.

That is what makes Williams iconic and beloved and those two words seem to be not enough. Passing in 2014, it did not bring his comedy to a stop but instead continues to allow us to remember who he was and all that he gave through stand-up, television, the big screen and all his personal endeavors to make the world a happier place.

The DVD cover shows us all Williams’ silly sides as if to tease about what is inside and to join him in the ride. I, personally, would never turn down the request of a Comic Genius! Billy Crystal says, "You know that cartoon, that Tasmanian devil that comes out and just spins - he was that, but eloquent and hilarious". Jay Leno says, "Everybody else prepared, Robin was just a natural, and he worked on every level". Finally, Steve Martin says of his friend, "he was like something waiting to happen, a very powerful anomaly."

In the end – it’s all about the na-nu-na-nu!